Bamboo Train | Sihanoukville

The Bamboo Train, also known locally as Norry, is a unique and popular transportation experience in Battambang, Cambodia. It is one of the most unconventional and memorable activities for visitors to the area, providing a glimpse into both the ingenuity and charm of local life while offering a fun adventure through the Cambodian countryside.

History and Origins

The Bamboo Train was originally created as a makeshift form of transportation for the locals. During the Khmer Rouge period in the 1970s, much of Cambodia’s infrastructure was destroyed, and conventional transportation methods were limited. In response, locals in Battambang and other rural areas developed the bamboo train system as a simple and cost-effective way to transport goods and people.

The trains are not actually "trains" in the traditional sense; rather, they are small platforms made from bamboo, set atop a set of metal wheels and powered by small engines, typically motorized by small gasoline engines. The tracks used for the bamboo trains are remnants of an old colonial-era railway system, which were abandoned and left unused for many years.

How the Bamboo Train Works

The bamboo trains are quite simple in design. They are typically constructed with a bamboo platform that sits on top of a few pairs of wheels, powered by a small gasoline engine. The engines are typically taken from motorbikes, and the speed is relatively slow, averaging around 30 to 40 kilometers per hour (18 to 25 miles per hour).

The tracks, though old and dilapidated, still run through the picturesque rural countryside of Battambang, passing through rice fields, small villages, and scenic landscapes. The bamboo trains are guided by tracks that, at times, can be uneven and bumpy, which only adds to the excitement and uniqueness of the experience.

One of the key features of the bamboo train system is its ability to be quickly disassembled. Because the trains are built on flat bamboo platforms, they can be easily removed if another train is coming in the opposite direction. When two trains meet on a single track, the one with fewer passengers (or the one further away from the destination) will lift off the track, allowing the other to pass. The trains are then reassembled quickly to continue their journey.

Experience and Scenic Views

Riding the Bamboo Train is an unforgettable experience. As the small platform moves along the tracks, riders are treated to stunning views of the Cambodian countryside, including lush rice paddies, distant mountains, and small villages. The breeze and the rumbling sound of the motor add to the sense of adventure.

During the ride, passengers may pass by farmers working the fields, local children waving as the train passes by, and rural landscapes that feel timeless. The entire journey is a window into the slower pace of life in rural Cambodia.

The Bamboo Train is a relatively short ride, typically lasting between 30 minutes to an hour, depending on the starting point and how long passengers wish to spend exploring the countryside. There are stops along the way where tourists can hop off and explore the area, take photos, or even purchase souvenirs from local vendors who set up small stalls near the tracks.

Popularity and Tourism

While the Bamboo Train began as a practical solution to transport goods and people in the rural areas of Battambang, it has since transformed into one of the most popular tourist attractions in the region. Visitors come from all over the world to experience this unique form of travel and to get an up-close look at rural life in Cambodia.

As tourism has grown in Battambang, the Bamboo Train has become a key attraction, offering a fun and distinctive way for visitors to see the countryside. The ride is not just about the train itself but also the opportunity to engage with the locals, interact with fellow travelers, and experience the rural lifestyle that is still very much alive in this part of Cambodia.

Recent Developments and Sustainability

In recent years, the Cambodian government has taken steps to rebuild and modernize the country's railway system, which has led to discussions about the future of the Bamboo Train. In 2018, the Cambodian government announced plans to shut down the traditional Bamboo Train route in Battambang, as part of a broader effort to restore the country's national rail system. However, due to its popularity with tourists and the local community, the Bamboo Train continues to operate in Battambang, albeit in a more regulated manner.

There are also efforts to ensure that the Bamboo Train experience remains sustainable and benefits the local economy. Many of the operators of the Bamboo Train are local residents who rely on the tourism generated by this unique form of transportation for their livelihood. Additionally, there are ongoing discussions about balancing the need for modern infrastructure with the desire to preserve the cultural heritage and authenticity of the Bamboo Train experience.

Conclusion

The Bamboo Train in Battambang is a remarkable and fun experience that offers both a unique mode of transport and a fascinating way to explore the rural Cambodian landscape. It serves as a reminder of the resilience and resourcefulness of the local people and their ability to adapt to their surroundings. For tourists, it offers an opportunity to engage with the culture and history of Cambodia in a very hands-on way. Whether as a ride through the countryside or as a symbol of Battambang's past, the Bamboo Train remains a beloved attraction for visitors seeking a memorable and authentic Cambodian experience.